Andi Emerson's memorial service planned next week

A memorial service for recently deceased Caples founder Andi Emerson will be held at 3:30 p.m. on February 28, 2008 at the Episcopal Church of The Transfiguration (Little Church Around the Corner) in New York.

Emerson died in her home in Manhattan on February 13, after a long battle with emphysema, at age 82. She leaves behind a reputation for determination and a high-profile awards program that celebrated and fostered the creative direct marketing community.

Due to her illness, Emerson was not able to enjoy fragrance in recent years, so in lieu of donations, she requested flowers. Camellias and snapdragons were particular favorites.

The family suggests that donations be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering, earmarked for the Pediatric Unit, where Emerson volunteered her time.

Emerson founded the John Caples International Awards in 1978 and served as its president for the first 29 years of the event. In 1990, the Caples Group introduced the Andi Emerson Award, to honor individuals who contribute outstanding service to the Direct Marketing creative community. Emerson was the award's first recipient.

This year's Caples event is scheduled for March 6 with Patrick Fultz, president/CCO of DM Creative Group LLC, as the president.